Ethics are a group
of rules that govern conduct. Ethics are
developed and evolve over time and are the result of intrinsic and extrinsic
perspectives. We have our own set of
ethics that govern our day to day interactions with family and friends. As professionals we also have guidelines or ethics
to promote uniformity in understanding and practice.
The process of
reviewing and selecting three of the most meaningful “rules” from the Code of Ethics
drafted by respected associations such as the National Association for the
Education of Young Children and the Division of Early Childhood is a difficult task. However upon much review and consideration relationships
advocacy and ethical practice are three areas that are most meaningful.
Relationships
Recognise that children
and adults achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that
are based on trust and respect. (NAEYC,Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of
Commitment, 2005)
Relationships are the basis
of all successful interactions. Families
trust professionals to be supporting their children to maximize the child’s potential. To ensure and maintain trust, professionals
must provide a safe and caring environment where developmentally appropriate
practices are evident. Professionals
must exhibit respect to ensure that families develop meaningful and engaging relationships;
providing feedback to and learning from professionals.
Advocacy
We shall serve as
advocates for children with disabilities and their families and for the professionals
who serve them by supporting both policy and programmatic decisions that enhance
the quality of their lives. (The Code of Ethics of the Division for Early
Childhood (DEC), 2009)
This is important for
multiple reasons. It is critical that
all children with exceptionalities and their families are respected and valued
within a inclusive environment. To me
this means that the environment is most enabling for the child to reach their maximum
potential. This is also an environment where
families’ voices and perspectives are heard, respected and guided. Often,
universally differentiated strategies used to support children with special
needs benefit all children.
Ethical Practice
We shall use every resource, including referral when
appropriate, to ensure high quality services are accessible and are provided to
children and families. (The Code of Ethics of the Division for Early Childhood
(DEC), 2009)
To me this means
professionals are obligated to be informed demonstrating developmentally
appropriate practices, ethical interventions in conjunction with the individual
child’s strengths and needs. To ensure that
this occurs, staff must be aware of developmental milestones, select appropriate
evaluative tools and assessment process.
This will ensure that internal interventions or community based referrals
are informed and appropriate and timely.
Feeney, S., & Kipnis, K. (1989). NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and
Statement of Commitment. Young
Children, 45(1), 24-29.
The
Division for Early Childhood. (2000, August). Code of ethics. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from
http://www.dec-sped.org/
http://www.dec-sped.org/
